Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House
Cork’s lively brewpub where wood-fired grills meet house-brewed beers and bold, smoky flavours in a convivial city-centre setting.
Tucked into a handsome building at the end of Oliver Plunkett Street in Cork, Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House is a vibrant brewpub and smokehouse where craft beer meets wood-fired cooking. The open kitchen features an Ox grill at its heart, turning out chargrilled steaks, ribs, and seafood, all enhanced by a signature spice rub. House-brewed beers like Jawbone Pale Ale and Angel Stout are poured on-site, while cocktails like the Oaxacan Wey add a smoky, spirited twist. It’s a place built on bold flavours, local sourcing, and a convivial, slightly rustic atmosphere.
A brief summary to Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House
- 4 Oliver Plunkett St, Cork, Centre, T12 YH24, IE
- +353212390479
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-9:30 pm
- Tuesday 5 pm-9:30 pm
- Wednesday 5 pm-9:30 pm
- Thursday 5 pm-9:30 pm
- Friday 5 pm-9:30 pm
- Saturday 5 pm-9:30 pm
- Sunday 5 pm-9:30 pm
Local tips
- Book a table in advance, especially on weekends, as Elbow Lane is popular and can fill up quickly.
- Try a beer tasting tray to sample the house brews – they’re designed to pair perfectly with the food.
- Don’t skip the signature spice rub – it’s what gives the meats and chips their distinctive, caramelised crust.
- Order sides separately; steaks and some mains come with only a small salad portion, so sides like Elbow chips or charred broccoli are worth adding.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House
A Cork Institution with Fire and Beer
Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House has become a cornerstone of Cork’s dining scene, a place where the city’s love of good food, craft beer, and relaxed hospitality comes together. Housed in a handsome building at the end of Oliver Plunkett Street, it combines a working nano-brewery with a smokehouse kitchen centred around a roaring open-fire Ox grill. The air inside carries the unmistakable scent of wood smoke and sizzling meat, setting the tone for a meal that’s hearty, flavourful, and deeply satisfying. This is not fine dining in the traditional sense, but a modern Irish brewpub that takes pride in its own beers, its house rub, and its commitment to local producers.Flavours from the Grill and the Tank
The menu is built around wood-grilled and smoked dishes, with steaks, ribs, and market fish taking centre stage. The signature spice rub – a blend of salt, pepper, sugar, herbs, and spices – is used liberally, forming a caramelised crust on meats and adding depth to sides like the famous Elbow chips. Starters often include deeply caramelised pork belly with fish sauce, chilli, and peanuts, or meaty Rossmore oysters from Cork Harbour with tomato and horseradish chutney. Mains range from ribeye with smoked butter to whole grilled mackerel and turbot aguachile, all designed to stand up to the robust house beers.House-Brewed Beers and Craft Cocktails
At the heart of Elbow Lane is its in-house brewery, producing a small but well-crafted range of beers that follow the principles of the German Purity Law. The line-up typically includes the crisp Elbow Lager, the dark and roasty Angel Stout, the fruity Jawbone Pale Ale, and occasional specials like Skiddys Sour. These beers are poured right in the restaurant, and tasting trays allow guests to sample several styles alongside olives or almonds. Beyond beer, the bar offers a selection of cocktails, including the Oaxacan Wey – a mezcal and tequila drink finished with a blow-torched pineapple chunk – that adds a smoky, tropical twist to the drinks list.Atmosphere and Experience
The atmosphere at Elbow Lane is lively, convivial, and slightly industrial-chic, with the open kitchen putting the cooking on full display. Chefs work at the Ox grill in full view of diners, adding a theatrical element to the meal. The space is compact but well laid out, with counter seating and tables that encourage a relaxed, sociable vibe. It’s a place that feels equally suited to a casual dinner with friends, a date night, or a solo perch at the bar with a pint and a plate of ribs. Service is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff happy to guide guests through the menu and beer list.Local Sourcing and Seasonal Touches
Elbow Lane takes pride in its connections to local suppliers, often listing producers by name on the menu. Meat, fish, and vegetables are mostly sourced from Cork, with occasional ingredients coming from nearby counties like Waterford. This focus on local produce means the menu changes subtly with the seasons, ensuring freshness and supporting the regional food economy. Even the butter is highlighted, with Irish Gourmet Butter from Billy and Mary getting a special mention, reinforcing the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and transparency.Practicalities for Visitors
The restaurant is open seven days a week for dinner, with last reservations typically around 9:30pm. It’s a popular spot, so booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially on weekends. The space is wheelchair accessible and offers table service, full bar, and free Wi-Fi. While the focus is on dinner, the combination of craft beer, cocktails, and shareable bites also makes it a great place for a late drink or a more casual evening out. Cork’s compact city centre makes it easy to reach on foot from most hotels and nearby attractions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
S Mall
0.2 km
Cork's elegant Georgian shopping street where historic architecture meets contemporary retail and culinary excellence.
Father Mathew Statue
0.3 km
Discover the Father Mathew Statue in Cork, a historic landmark symbolizing the city's rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
Eamon de Valera Bridge
0.3 km
Discover the Eamon de Valera Bridge in Cork, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in history, perfect for leisurely strolls and breathtaking views.
National Monument - Cork
0.5 km
Discover the National Monument in Cork, a stunning historical landmark celebrating Ireland's rich heritage and independence.
Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)
0.5 km
Explore Cork's Medieval City Wall: A journey through history in the heart of the city, revealing ancient defenses and architectural ingenuity.
Nano Nagle Bridge
0.5 km
Experience the beauty and history of Nano Nagle Bridge in Cork, an architectural marvel connecting communities and offering stunning riverside views.
Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle
0.9 km
Discover the historic Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle in Cork's scenic The Lough area, open daily for a reflective journey into the past.
Dundanion House Bridge
3.2 km
Discover the historic charm of Dundanion House Bridge in Cork: scenic views, rich history, and architectural beauty await!
Blarney Castle & Gardens
7.8 km
Experience the charm of Blarney Castle & Gardens in Ireland, where history, beauty, and legends come together in a breathtaking setting.
Blarney Stone
7.8 km
Experience the magic of the Blarney Stone at breathtaking Blarney Castle, where history, beauty, and charm await every visitor.
Old Church
12.3 km
Explore the historic Old Church of Cloyne in Co. Cork, a serene site rich in ecclesiastical heritage and stunning architecture amidst picturesque landscapes.
Cobh
12.9 km
Discover Cobh, a vibrant seaside town in County Cork, rich in maritime history and stunning coastal views, perfect for a memorable Irish getaway.
1 Pearse Square
13.0 km
Explore the enchanting Pearse Square in Cobh, a serene spot filled with historical significance and stunning coastal views.
Camden Fort Meagher
16.3 km
Explore Camden Fort Meagher: A historic fortress with breathtaking views, a local café, and engaging exhibits on Ireland's military history.
Kindred Spirits: Choctaw Native American Monument
20.1 km
Explore the Kindred Spirits Monument in Co. Cork, a breathtaking tribute to the enduring bond between the Irish and Choctaw Native American communities.
Unmissable attractions to see
Merchants Quay Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A vibrant shopping and dining destination in the heart of Cork city, blending major retailers with cozy cafés and lively urban energy.
Oliver Plunkett St
0.2 km
Historic heart of Cork city, Oliver Plunkett Street buzzes with shops, eateries, and vibrant nightlife in a charming pedestrianised setting.
Cork Tourist Information Centre
0.3 km
Discover Cork with the Cork Tourist Information Centre, your essential guide to the city's attractions, culture, and local secrets.
Paddywagon Tours Cork
0.3 km
Discover the beauty of Ireland with Paddywagon Tours Cork, your gateway to unforgettable adventures and stunning landscapes.
Mother Jones Flea Market
0.4 km
Cork’s lively indoor weekend flea market, packed with vintage clothes, vinyl, antiques, crafts, and local flavour in the heart of the city.
Kilkenny Design Emmett Place
0.4 km
Discover authentic Irish craftsmanship and contemporary design at Kilkenny Design, Cork’s premier destination for fashion, art, and homewares.
Cork Ghost Tour
0.4 km
Experience Cork's haunted history with a thrilling walking tour that blends ghostly tales, historical facts, and comedic frights.
Crawford Art Gallery
0.4 km
Discover the artistic treasures of Crawford Art Gallery in Cork, where history and contemporary creativity converge in a stunning cultural experience.
Saints Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic Church
0.5 km
Explore the stunning Saints Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic Church in Cork, a masterpiece of architecture and a serene spiritual retreat in a bustling city.
Cork Historic Walking Tours
0.5 km
Discover Cork’s layered history on foot with a local guide, from medieval streets to modern markets in the heart of Ireland’s second city.
Grand Parade
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Grand Parade in Cork, where history meets modern charm and local culture thrives.
Berwick Fountain
0.5 km
A historic fountain in Cork's Grand Parade, symbolizing gratitude and civic pride since 1860. A popular meeting point and landmark.
Michael Collins Statue
0.5 km
A lifelike tribute to Michael Collins, capturing the spirit of Ireland’s revolutionary hero in the heart of Cork city.
Bishop Lucey Park
0.6 km
Experience tranquility in Bishop Lucey Park, Cork, a lush urban retreat perfect for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying local culture.
Red Abbey Tower
0.6 km
Explore the historic Red Abbey Tower in Cork, a remarkable landmark showcasing Ireland's architectural heritage and rich history.
Essential places to dine
Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House
0.0 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House in Cork – where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Market Lane
0.0 km
Award-winning Irish restaurant and bar in Cork city centre, famed for local ingredients, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Bocelli Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
0.0 km
Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Bocelli Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar in Cork - where every dish tells a story.
Goldie
0.0 km
A vibrant seafood haven in Cork’s heart, Goldie serves sustainable, inventive dishes with a whole-fish philosophy and local charm.
Cork & Fork
0.1 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Cork & Fork, where homemade dishes meet a cozy café atmosphere in the heart of Cork.
Thali Nepal Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic Nepalese cuisine infused with Indian flavors at Thali Nepal Restaurant in Cork.
The Premier Inn Cork City
0.1 km
Modern, clean, and comfortable hotel in central Cork beside the River Lee, perfect for exploring city landmarks and enjoying great dining.
Jacques Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Jacques Restaurant in Cork, where local flavors meet warm hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.
Scoozi
0.1 km
Family-friendly Italian dining with hearty portions and a welcoming atmosphere in Cork city centre.
Orso Kitchen & Bar
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours in a cozy, stylish Cork city centre restaurant with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Boojum
0.2 km
Fresh, fast, and flavorful Mexican burritos in the heart of Cork city at unbeatable prices.
Il Padrino Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining in Cork's heart, where tradition meets warm hospitality.
Nosta Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover authentic Mediterranean flavors at Nosta Restaurant in Cork - where every dish tells a story.
The Glass Curtain
0.3 km
Experience contemporary Irish cuisine at The Glass Curtain in Cork's Victorian Quarter - where tradition meets innovation.
Da Mirco Osteria Italian Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic northern Italian cuisine served with warmth and rustic charm in the heart of Cork’s Montenotte district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Olori
0.0 km
Experience the charm of Olori, a boutique in Cork offering stylish women's clothing and unique fashion accessories in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Sheena's Boutique
0.1 km
Explore Sheena's Boutique in Cork for a unique selection of women's fashion and accessories, showcasing local designers and contemporary styles.
Carrolls Irish Gifts
0.2 km
Explore Carrolls Irish Gifts in Cork for the best selection of authentic Irish souvenirs, showcasing the rich culture and craftsmanship of Ireland.
Born Clothing
0.2 km
Trendy and affordable fashion for men and women in Cork’s vibrant Merchants Quay Shopping Centre.
Penneys
0.3 km
Affordable fashion and homeware in the heart of Cork’s vibrant Saint Patrick’s Street shopping district.
Flying Tiger
0.3 km
Colorful Scandinavian design meets budget-friendly shopping in Cork's vibrant city centre.
Miss Daisy Blue
0.3 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Miss Daisy Blue, a unique clothing store in Cork's Victorian Quarter offering curated retro treasures.
Samui
0.3 km
Discover Samui, Cork’s luxury women’s boutique offering exclusive designer fashion and impeccable personal service in a stylish city centre setting.
The North Face Cork
0.3 km
Your go-to outdoor store in central Cork for The North Face clothing, footwear, and gear for hiking, climbing, skiing, and everyday adventures.
Unbound
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Unbound, a charming gift shop in Cork's Victorian Quarter, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Vibes & Scribes Crafts
0.4 km
Explore your creativity at Vibes & Scribes Crafts in Cork, your ultimate destination for all crafting supplies, yarn, fabric, and artistic inspiration.
York St Clobber
0.4 km
A vibrant independent vintage clothing shop inside Mother Jones Market, perfect for unique retro finds and a relaxed Cork shopping experience.
Nine Crows Cork
0.4 km
Handpicked 90s and Y2K vintage fashion in Cork's city centre, where daily discoveries meet conscious style.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Store
0.4 km
Discover authentic Irish gifts and souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a cherished Cork city store blending tradition with quality craftsmanship.
My Cork Gifts
0.4 km
Discover authentic Irish souvenirs at My Cork Gifts, a charming shop in Cork that captures the essence of Ireland with every unique item.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Poor Relation
0.0 km
Experience authentic Irish culture at The Poor Relation, a beloved pub in Cork with a lively atmosphere and a vast selection of drinks.
Old Oak
0.1 km
Experience the heart of Cork at Old Oak, where traditional Irish hospitality meets delicious food and a lively atmosphere.
Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy, Cork's historic wine bar and pub, where flavor meets tradition in a vibrant atmosphere.
L'Atitude 51 Wine Bar
0.2 km
Discover the charm of L'Atitude 51 Wine Bar in Cork - a wine lover's paradise with an extensive selection and delicious small plates.
The Hi-B Bar
0.2 km
Step into The Hi-B Bar, a cozy 1920s Cork pub where tradition, live music, and heartfelt conversation create an unforgettable Irish experience.
No.76
0.2 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and live music venue blending modern style with historic charm in the heart of Cork City.
Le Chateau
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails at Le Chateau, Cork's premier bar for relaxation and entertainment.
The Thomond Bar
0.3 km
Discover the heart of Cork's nightlife at The Thomond Bar, where authentic Irish culture meets delicious food and live entertainment.
The Shelbourne Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Shelbourne Bar in Cork's Victorian Quarter, offering traditional fare and a vibrant atmosphere.
Paladar
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture of Cork at Paladar, where innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Cask
0.4 km
Experience Cork's vibrant cocktail scene at Cask, where unique drinks and delicious tapas meet in a stylish setting.
Mutton Lane Inn
0.4 km
Experience the heart of Cork at Mutton Lane Inn, a historic pub serving traditional Irish drinks and vibrant local culture.
Sin é
0.4 km
Discover the best of Irish culture and live music at Sin É, Cork's iconic pub in the heart of the Victorian Quarter.
Popscene Late Bar & Club
0.5 km
A lively late-night venue on Oliver Plunkett Street blending 80s tunes with a welcoming atmosphere for all ages in the heart of Cork.
An Bróg Bar + Kitchen
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of An Bróg Bar + Kitchen, Cork's premier Irish pub offering delicious food, DJ nights, and a welcoming vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Crane Lane Theatre
0.1 km
Experience Cork's vibrant nightlife at The Crane Lane Theatre, where live music, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere await.
Dali
0.3 km
Experience Cork's nightlife at Dali Nightclub, where music and energy collide in an unforgettable evening of fun and dancing.
Vibe Gay Nightclub Cork
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife at Vibe Gay Nightclub Cork, where inclusivity meets electrifying entertainment.
Eclipse Nightclub
0.4 km
Discover Cork's nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, a premier disco club with electrifying music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable experiences.
Voodoo Rooms
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cork at Voodoo Rooms, where eclectic music and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night.
Angels Cork t/a The Asylum Bar
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Cork at The Asylum Bar, where entertainment meets a classy and casual atmosphere.
The Secret Garden
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Secret Garden, Cork's enchanting night club offering unforgettable experiences and lively entertainment.
Le Cabaret, Cork
0.7 km
Discover Cork's nightlife at Le Cabaret, where vibrant music, a lively atmosphere, and unforgettable experiences await every night.
The Bishopstown Bar & Restaurant
4.0 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at The Bishopstown Bar & Restaurant, where traditional fare meets a lively pub atmosphere in Cork.
ExpressDjs
49.0 km
ExpressDJs offers top-notch DJ services for any event in Ireland, ensuring unforgettable musical experiences tailored to your celebrations.
The Hiland
49.9 km
Discover electrifying nights at The Hiland, Co. Cork's top nightclub with dazzling lights, multiple dance floors, and vibrant nightlife.
The Hill Inn
64.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local charm of The Hill Inn in Carrigeen, Co. Tipperary, a must-visit bar for every traveler.
Tanyard
67.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Skibbereen at Tanyard, a lively bar offering a fantastic selection of drinks and live entertainment.
Cotter's Bar & Chaser's Nightclub
67.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Gortnaclohy at Cotter's Bar & Chaser's Nightclub, where great drinks and music create unforgettable memories.
Jimmy Brien's Bar
73.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jimmy Brien's Bar in Killarney, where sports, local brews, and hearty meals come together in a warm, inviting setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Casual
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
